Rental Guarantee for Apartment: Rules and What You Need to Know 2026

Rental Guarantee for Apartment – What You Need to Know

A rental guarantee for an apartment is a security deposit paid to the landlord before you move in. It serves as protection for the property owner against financial loss if rent goes unpaid or significant damage occurs. This guide explains the rules, amounts, and what you should know about rental guarantees in 2026.

What is a Rental Guarantee for an Apartment?

What does a rental guarantee mean?

A rental guarantee is a sum of money paid by the tenant to the landlord when signing the lease. The guarantee ensures that you follow the lease terms, pay rent on time, and return the apartment in good condition. The amount typically equals two to three months' rent and is held in a separate account by the landlord.

What rules apply to rental guarantees?

Rental guarantee regulations are strictly enforced to protect tenants. The landlord must keep the money in a secure, separate account and may only use it to cover documented damage or unpaid rent. The remaining balance must be returned when the lease ends.

Rental Guarantee – How Much Should You Pay?

What is a typical rental guarantee amount?

A standard rental guarantee typically equals two to three months' rent. In larger cities and expensive apartments, landlords may require up to three months' rent. The amount must always be reasonable and proportional to the apartment's value and the landlord's risks.

Can a landlord require a higher guarantee?

A landlord can request a higher guarantee if there's a reasonable justification. However, excessively high demands may violate tenant protection laws. As a tenant, you have the right to question unreasonable amounts and often can negotiate.

Rental Guarantee Refund – What Happens When You Move Out?

What is a rental guarantee refund?

A rental guarantee refund is the process of returning your security deposit after the lease ends. The landlord must return the funds within a reasonable timeframe, typically 30-90 days after move-out. If there's documented damage or unpaid rent, the landlord can deduct costs but must show evidence.

How long does the landlord have to return the deposit?

The landlord cannot hold the guarantee longer than necessary to address damage. If there are no claims, the full amount must be returned promptly or within a few weeks. Tenants should follow up actively if repayment doesn't occur within two months.

What costs can be deducted from the guarantee?

The landlord can only deduct actual, documented repair costs for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Examples include major wall damage, broken windows, or mold damage. The landlord must provide receipts or repair quotes for any deductions.

What doesn't count as damage?

Normal wear from living in the apartment isn't covered by the guarantee. This includes carpet wear, small wall marks from furniture, and scratches on hardwood floors. The landlord cannot charge for restoring the apartment to like-new condition, only for fixing actual damage.

Your Rights and Protections

What if the landlord doesn't return your deposit?

If the landlord fails to return your guarantee within a reasonable time or makes unreasonable deductions, send a written reminder. If unresolved, contact tenant organizations or take the landlord to court. Keep all correspondence and documentation from move-in and move-out.

Can you get insurance instead of paying a cash deposit?

Yes, many landlords accept rental guarantee insurance instead of a cash deposit. Insurance serves as a guarantee for the landlord and is often cheaper for tenants than paying two to three months' rent upfront. Ask potential landlords if this is an option before signing.

What documentation should you keep?

Save all documentation related to the guarantee, including payment receipts, a copy of the lease, move-in inventory, and photos of the apartment's condition. Take photos of the apartment when you move out and keep a detailed exit inventory. This documentation protects you if disputes arise.